When you're in a relationship, it can be hard to remember that Netflixing and chilling isn't really a date per se. It's so important to keep the spark with your partner alive, which is why fun double date ideas can help you do that. First of all, you're much more likely to follow through with plans if there's another couple involved. And even more importantly: Research has actually proven that double dating has real benefits for your relationship.

According to a recent study, when you do an actual bonding activity—aka a double date—with another pair, it leads to "increased passionate love within couples, whereas similar interactions alone with one's partner did not." Apparently, these types of experiences spark something in you that helps your love grow. And when it comes to seeing your friends and your S.O. at the same time, it's a definite win-win. We've taken all the work out of it for you and brainstormed 11 double date ideas everyone will enjoy.

Pick one, put it on the calendar, and make it a monthly thing.

Nicole Franzen

Have an at-home cooking session

Yes, grabbing a bite out can be so much fun, but if you're heading there on a busy weekend night, chances are that your waiter won't let you have your table for more than an hour or so. Instead, choose your favorite meal delivery service and pick a recipe you've never tried. Both couples can make a portion—and you can see whose turns out best (winners don't have to clear the table).

Picnic at the beach

Why does the water just make everything more romantic? When the sun starts to set, pack a picnic basket of easy appetizers and wine (don't forget some blankets for the sand). If it gets a little chilly, it's just an excuse for you to cuddle up next to your partner. PS: If it's not too cloudy, this can be the perfect place to stargaze.

Hit up a film festival

There's nothing wrong with going to the regular movie theater, but scoping out a film festival makes things a bit more special. Have both couples choose a few flicks they want to see and head to all of them together. You can debrief and chat about your favorites over lunch (or dinner).

Karaoke in a private room

You may not be the type to belt out your favorite song in front of the entire bar, but renting out a private room at your favorite karaoke spot is the ultimate good time. It can be couple versus couple or friends versus partners (or maybe just keep switching it up). Fun idea: Pick a theme, like favorite '90s songs, and each team has to try to outdo each other with their next pick.

Fly through the sky in a trapeze class

Doing the trapeze will definitely test your trust (especially if you're a little wary of heights). As you soar through the sky, you'll depend on your relationship with your partner and your confidence in yourself. Having friends along for the ride means there will be more people cheering you on from the ground.

Try cider catching

Instead of a vineyard tour, try the newest trend and go cider catching at a taproom like Bushwick's Brooklyn Cider House. The Basque region tradition is that taprooms allow you to literally catch your own cider from spouts in chestnut barrels. How's that for an international-inspired date night?

Sarah Sherman Samuel

Team up for trivia night

Instead of a "you against us" mentality, team up to try to win bragging rights at your local bar's trivia night. Do some research to see which theme you may all do particularly well at (Friends trivia is a thing). Remember to get to the location a little early to save a table because you most definitely do not want to stand the whole time. (And you're for sure going to want a spot to place all the comfort food and brews.) Another option: Host a trivia night at home with a game like Trivial Pursuit.

Road trip to a concert

The thing we love about a concert is that you can make it an all-day affair. If you've got a ride there, road trip together and listen to the artist's albums on the way to refamiliarize yourself with the words—you'll want to belt them out later, trust us. Depending on the time, plan a meal before or after to have time to catch up (concerts are too loud for talking).

Get tickets to a sports game

Whether you're a super fan (or not), you'll still have a good time cheering during a sports game. Fun fact: My dad would buy me a different treat during every period of the hockey game as a kid—if I was always able to have a good time, then you can too. Bonus points if you try to get on the Jumbotron during the halftime show.

Book an interactive experience

Whether it's a visit to New York's new spy museum or an outing at Escape the Room, an interactive experience is more exciting with more people. Plus you'll get to know each other by putting your problem-solving skills to the test. And, oh yeah, you can't leave until you get a ridiculous group photo with one of those themed backgrounds.

See a magic show

There's something sexy about a night filled with magic, but splurge on the real deal because an amateur magician isn't anything like amateur comedy night. If you live in New York, we've heard The Magician at The NoMad is not to be missed, while Los Angeles is home to the iconic Magic Castle (but you need to know a member).

Now that you have the top double date ideas top of mind, why not include your friends on your next night (or day) out?